Here it is again – more of the pink & brown stretch mesh.  This time, paired with Simplicity 4076 (which every second person on Pattern Review has made ages ago – I’m very behind the times).

I made a straight size 12, as per the pattern.

It definitely needed the camisole underneath.  I’m not generally fazed by displaying a little cleavage, but this top was giving away a bit too much information!  The mesh was very stretchy across the wide back neckline and at first it wouldn’t stay on my shoulders, so I did as hubby suggested and sewed some clear elastic around the neckline from shoulder seam to shoulder seam, stretching the elastic slightly as I went. 

The bell shaped sleeves are nice, and this isn’t too bad as a wearable muslin.  Once again, I’m glad it’s not any shorter – tall people and anyone who isn’t short-waisted must be baring their midriff in this design!  Next time I make it (and there might be a next time) I’ll put the elastic around the back neckline while I hem it, and I’ll lengthen the top a couple of inches.  I plan on trying the other styles from this pattern soon as well.

Does anyone else who grew up with the metric system sew in imperial measurements like I do?  It’s weird!  I buy fabric and notions by the metre (or centimetre) but sew with a 5/8″ or half an inch seam, and can use both measurements interchangeably.  I think it comes from using so many American patterns and sewing equipment.  I even use American terminology when crocheting, which is a direct result of so many of the patterns coming from America.  But I measure crochet hook sizes in millimetres – it’s should be completely confusing, but I seem to manage with it somehow!